The National Civil Society Union of Liberia has commended the Liberian government for successfully renegotiating the Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) agreement with Global Tracking and Maritime Solution (GTMS) Liberia Incorporated. The revised deal, finalized through the National Port Authority (NPA), introduces more favorable terms for Liberia and reduces shipping fees for port users.
The renegotiation fulfills a major campaign promise by President Joseph Boakai and the Unity Party during the 2023 presidential elections. Boakai had vowed to ease the financial burden on local businesses by addressing the high costs imposed under the previous CTN agreement, which was established during former President George Weah’s administration and implemented by then-NPA Managing Director, now Senator Bill Twehway.
Under the revised agreement, Liberia’s share of CTN revenue will increase significantly. The government’s portion rises from 2% to 40% for the first five years, with a further increase to 45% in the following five years. This marks a substantial boost in national earnings from port-related activities, a key departure from the previous terms that critics described as exploitative.
The renegotiated deal also brings relief to port users by lowering shipping fees. The cost for a 20-foot import container has dropped to US$95, down from over US$150, while the fee for a 40-foot container is now US$190. Export charges have also been reduced to US$15 for a 20-foot container and US$30 for a 40-foot container. Bulk importers will now pay US$0.85 per metric ton, while the export rate is set at US$0.36 per metric ton.
NPA Managing Director Sekou Hussein Dukuly led the renegotiation process with technical support from Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) Commissioner General Dorbor Jallah, Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan, and Justice Minister Cllr. Oswald Tweh. The LRA will now play a direct role in the agreement’s implementation, a move intended to enhance revenue collection and ensure transparency.
The National Civil Society Union described the revised agreement as a major victory for local businesses and a step toward improving trade facilitation. The previous CTN terms faced widespread criticism from business owners who argued that high fees increased operational costs and drove up market prices. Some stakeholders went as far as labeling the prior arrangement as “devilish.”
The new agreement, which will remain in effect for ten years, includes provisions for periodic reviews to ensure the terms align with Liberia’s evolving economic needs. The first review is scheduled after five years, allowing room for adjustments as necessary.
The Civil Society Union emphasized that the renegotiation represents a more balanced approach to port operations, ensuring that the government benefits from every dollar generated while easing financial pressures on local businesses. The organization also commended GTMS for cooperating with the government’s vision to advance Liberia’s economic interests.
